Types Of Pool Coping And How To Choose One

Swimming pool coping is nothing but edging but it functions as far more than mere decoration. It prevents water from seeping into a deck and hides rough edges that may otherwise cause cuts and bruises.

Different types of coping materials can be used for pools. Some serve better but there are quality options available for budget customers too. Here's a look at some of the more popular coping materials.

Poured concrete

Concrete is known for its affordability and long life. For pools, it must be poured to limit the stress. This also ensures an even surface and uniform strength. Maintenance is required as temperature changes can cause it to crack so if any are discovered, immediate repair is recommended.

Brick

Brick is a charming choice although not used as widely as concrete. Nevertheless, if its uniqueness a pool owner wants, this is it. One of the main drawbacks of brick is a rough surface which is disturbing for many who swim barefoot. It sometimes retains heat too which can be undesirable.

Stone

Stone is recognized for its toughness, good looks and cool temperature. The only reason it isn't used as often is cost. Natural stone, especially the high-end varieties like travertine, is quite expensive but if it can be afforded, there's nothing like it.

Safety grip

Safety grip coping is concrete-based but designed to minimize slips and increase grip. It's ideal for swimmers and non-swimmers alike. It's common to find it installed in public swimming pools.

Most pool owners choose coping materials based on how often the pool will be used, climate factors, and maintenance time and cost. Travertine is believed to be among the best as long as buyers can afford it. The fact that natural stone is available in different options with many textures and colors is a bonus. Let's look at how to simplify the process of choosing pool coping...

• Color should be selected after assessing the surroundings. For instance, a pool surrounded by foliage and lots of natural components should have neutral or earthy tones. Pool owners who prefer a bit of 'pop' can go for coping that stands out starkly from the background, for example, white coping against black floor tiles. For infinity pools, it's better to choose a seamless effect to enhance the negative edge.

• Pools that are lighter in color look bigger so if space is limited something in off-white or a very pale shade of blue will give the illusion of bigger size. This principle has the opposite effect on smaller pools.

• Buyers have a choice of four main styles of coping. There's the bull-nose which has a flat surface and a rolled edge; the cantilevered coping which drops at a straight angle down to the water; the rolled edge which has an upward curve; and the rough cut which may or may not be flat.

All four styles are not only decorative but functional. For example, rolled edge and bull-nose make getting in and out easier while cantilevered is chosen mostly for decoration. Rough cut is not particularly smooth on the feet but slips and falls are minimized. The best way to choose a style is to decide what the pool will be used for.